Bears Star To Drive Pace Car At Joliet's NASCAR Race

The folllowing information is from the Chicagoland Speedway marketing and communications staff:

JOLIET, IL — Chicagoland Speedway announced that former Chicago Bears All-Pro cornerback Charles “Peanut” Tillman will serve as the Honorary Pace Car Driver for the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series Overton’s 400 race on Sunday, July 1. Tillman will take a lap around the track during the pre-race ceremonies on Sunday at approximately 1:30 p.m.

During 12 years with the Bears, Tillman accumulated 38 interceptions and 44 forced fumbles, making him the only player in NFL history with at least 35 interceptions and 40 forced fumbles. Tillman made the lives of opposing wide receivers miserable, often stripping or “punching” the ball free from their hands to produce a fumble. This savvy move, known as the “Peanut Punch,” became the cornerback’s trademark.

Tillman was selected to two Pro Bowls and was named the Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year in 2013. He spent his 13th NFL season with the Carolina Panthers, ending in a Super Bowl berth before retiring in 2016.

“It is a true honor to have a Chicago sports legend like Charles here for Stars and Stripes Weekend,” said President of Chicagoland Speedway Scott Paddock. “Peanut had an incredible career in the NFL, and his presence will add a sensational dynamic to Sunday’s Overton’s 400 race.”

For information about schedules, admissions and more, visit the Chicagoland Speedway website here.

Images via Chicagoland Speedway